When Kimberly Ussery conceived of Camp Creative, it was because she knew there were other women just like herself — those craving a day of creative expression in dance, art, writing, and play.

“In today’s fast-paced and competitive environment, a nurturing, supportive, and strong tribe is the key to a woman’s survival,” she said. “I wanted to bring together writers, artists, and actors to create an out-of-the-ordinary experience designed to reignite and reawaken creativity through words and movement.

“The idea of finding what speaks to you creatively—whether it’s dance, art, or writing—and carrying that with you as you continue to mature is an amazing source of youthfulness.”

Camp Creative is just one facet of what you’ll find from UCR Extension, a department that extends the academic resources of the University of California, Riverside, to the Coachella Valley. Its mission is to bring dynamic lectures, fascinating classes, interesting workshops, and seminars to students everywhere of all skill and education levels. You’ll find everything from STEM camps for children to customized professional training programs as partnerships with businesses, agencies, and organizations.

A crowd fills the auditorium at UCR Palm Desert for another UCR Extension event.(Photo: By Taya Gray/Provided by UCR Palm Desert)

“UCR Extension and the Osher program offer a safe and welcoming environment for individuals who identify as lifelong learners, as well as those who are intellectually curious on a wide range of educational, professional, and cultural learning experiences and training programs,” said Sandra Richards, director of science, law, humanities, and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UCR Extension.

For example, the offerings from Osher are designed to be challenging but are also not intimidating. Some students have advanced degrees, while others have never set foot on a university campus.

“The courses and events happen in an environment that honors the integrity of an academic setting but offer challenging experiences without grades and tests,” Richards said.

She noted these programs cultivate an environment of peer enjoyment, with students who often leave the classroom as friends instead of strangers.

“Their bond is just the joy of learning anytime and anywhere,” Richards said. “Anyone whose curiosity has only been heightened in their wisdom years can appreciate the variety of learning experiences offered.”

In the past, UCR Extension has offered a film series, “Books to Blockbusters,” featuring book-to-film selections that span the eras; a series of workshops on Mastering Career Renewal at Mid-Life; and a screening of the award-winning documentary, “Cuba’s Forgotten Jewels: A Haven in Havana.”

Extension also partners with other campus entities, such as the UCR Center for Ideas and Society lecture series, “Risky Business,” which engages public audiences in conversation with two academics from different disciplines on a single topic.”

One very popular program has been Nonprofit Management certification, (in partnership with the Regional Access Project Foundation), which helps nonprofit leaders develop organizational resources, increase assets, and position their organization for growth. Due to interest and need, the program recently expanded to offer an Advanced Nonprofit Management course that builds upon managers’ existing knowledge.

Tamara Hedges, executive director of the UCR Palm Desert Center, and Sandra Richards from UCR Extension, share a laugh during a recent event.(Photo: By Taya Gray/Provided by UCR Palm Desert)

Julisa Parker, an alumna of the introductory-level program, said the classes were essential in helping her develop her own nonprofit idea.

"Before I was honestly scared to start my nonprofit, because I didn’t know enough about that world and I didn't want to get myself in too deep. But now I feel empowered," said Parker, who is launching a nonprofit to bring music education to high-poverty areas in the Coachella Valley. "This program opens your eyes to a broader view of the nonprofit world, so you know exactly what it takes to succeed."

If you’d like to see how UCR Extension can enrich your life, upcoming local offerings include the following:

• 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 23: Louis Medvene, Ph.D., a social psychologist and professor of psychology, will present on the topic, Successful Aging: Maximizing the Quality of Time Left. What does it mean to age successfully? What motivates our actions and behavior as we age? Registration including parking is $35. Held at UCR Palm Desert.

• On the Road with UCR Osher Fieldtrips and Tours is a program that allows members and the community to explore and experience cultural, historical, and architectural wonders of Southern California. Next up is the Bowers Museum on Saturday, April 17. Enjoy tours of American Visionary: John F. Kennedy’s Life and Times, and First Americans: Tribal Art from North America. Tickets are $65 and include registration, parking at UCR Palm Desert Center, roundtrip transportation, and admissions.